<a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/chinese-cities/">China's existing cities</a> are bursting at the seams, so developers are building new cities as far afield as the vast and formidable Xiangshawan desert. <a href="http://plat.asia/news">PLaT Architects</a>' Lotus Hotel is a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/prefab-design/">prefabricated</a> desert development that can be built without the use of water or concrete. The building is designed to be made from locally-sourced materials, and it generates its own electricity and water.

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

The Locus Hotel is located in the heart of China's Xiangshawan Desert

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

Made of mostly prefabricated steel elements, this structure requires no water or concrete for construction

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

Shifting sands give the base some stability, while load bearing walls account for the majority of the building's structural integrity

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

PLaT Architects are striving for a net-zero facility that generates its own water and electricity

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

A wall covering made of desert sand makes optimum use of locally-available materials

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

The hotel is just one part of a greater desert city plan

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Xiangshawan Desert Lotus Hotel by PLaT Architects

China's existing cities are bursting at the seams, so developers are building new cities as far afield as the vast and formidable Xiangshawan desert. PLaT Architects' Lotus Hotel is a prefabricated desert development that can be built without the use of water or concrete. The building is designed to be made from locally-sourced materials, and it generates its own electricity and water.